Slip and fall incidents are typically the results of tripping hazards, slick surfaces, uneven walkways, and more. These incidents can lead to serious injuries and can even result in lawsuits. If one occurs, the first thing to determine is whether or not the property owner is at fault for the injury.
Did the Property Owner Know About the Hazard?
Since the incident took place on their property, the owner and/or their employees can be held liable if certain conditions are met. You first need to determine with the owner was aware of the hazard. Sometimes hazards might not be obvious and an injury can occur. In these cases, it allows the owner to address the issue and make sure future incidents don’t occur. If they did know about the hazard and failed to do anything about it, then they can be held liable for the incident.
Did They Address the Hazard?
If a property owner and/or their employees know about a hazard, they are responsible for addressing it. After an injury occurs, it needs to be determined if they did anything about the hazard. They can be held liable if they ignored the hazard or if they didn’t properly handle it. Some owners might partially address a concern or apply a temporary solution that doesn’t fully prevent future incidents. A property owner is not liable if they have fully and properly addressed the hazard to create a safe environment.
Did They Cause the Hazard?
Unfortunately, there are cases where the property owner or their employees can be responsible for a hazard. For example, if they spill something on the floor, don’t clean it up, and someone slips, then they are at fault for the incident. Other examples of the owner being at fault include poor lighting, inventory left out on the floor, unfinished construction projects, improper waterproofing for weather, and or even loose gravel on walkways. If a property owner is responsible for unsafe conditions, and they have not addressed or changed these conditions, they are held liable for the incident.
There are several reasons why a property owner and/or their employees may be at fault for a slip and fall incident. If you have recently been injured in such an incident, you should determine if any of these conditions have been met. Working with a slip-and-fall lawyer can help you fight your case.
Ahlander Injury Law is well-equipped to assist on your slip and fall case. Click here to learn more and get in contact.